Makeup is such a versatile form of art. It allows us to highlight our best features and it can provide a confidence boost. But did you know that hiring a makeup artist on top of your professional photographer go hand in hand? This is Sarah (pictured below). She is my makeup artist that I contract out for all of my senior sessions as well as any personal shoots I have. She is amazing at what she does. Check out her website and Instagram. Seriously, I love her work so much - she can do anything! Sarah graciously offered to help me with my little project; convince my clients that they should hire a makeup artist for their shoot!

 1. Show Off Your Best Skin

      One of the things I love about working with Sarah is that she asks questions about your skin! What makeup do you usually wear? Is your skin oily or dry? What is your cleaning routine like? And with all of your answers, she's able to figure out the best way to care for your face and what makeup route she should take. Makeup should enhance your skin, not detract. Sarah, like other makeup artists are trained to highlight the best features of you and bring out the inner beauty. 

2.  Confidence is Key

     Your makeup artist will listen to what you like and dislike and will be able to create you the perfect look! And when you look good, you feel good! That extra Beyonce energy radiates off of you and explodes onto the camera! You are able to rock your photoshoot full of confidence! 

3. Camera Ready

     Have you ever seen yourself on stage, or from far away in front of bright lights? Your everyday makeup that you applied looks nonexistent. That's why broadway and stage actors have to cake on the makeup - to be seen. It's roughly the same concept with photography, minus the caking. Real life can translate differently onto photographs. A makeup artist will know what type to use based on the shoot. For example, if you're going to be doing flash photography, there are certain makeups that don't reflect the light bouncing off your face. Not to mention, pro makeup is real life photoshop! It smooths and brightens your face in real life and saves me time editing - making your pictures done sooner! ;)

     I decided to do a little experiment during my senior shoot. I had Brecken show up with how much makeup she usually wears for everyday life. Then we took a few shots to recreate. We were on location, so I had Sarah bring out her equipment and chair and do Brecken's makeup right in the middle of the park. This way we would be able to maintain the same environment for the pictures.  

Now, before you read on, just know that I am not trying to bash your everyday look - that is what it is for, everyday! What I am trying to do is educate the importance of knowing when to hire out. Both images of Brecken are BEAUTIFUL! I am all about natural beauty and loving yourself, but by hiring a makeup artist, you are able to enhance your features. 

Same pose, location, editing, everything! (The only difference is the position of the sun) But look how much lighter Brecken's eyes look in the second image. Sarah was able to lighten her face and pull you in.

Here's another example. In the makeup picture, it really doesn't look like Brecken is wearing a ton of makeup. It is a very natural look that softens the edges and once again draws you into her eyes. Whereas the "everyday makeup" look is very shadowy and hard to read the eyes.

Obviously I'm a big fan of professional makeup. You are able to achieve the look you want that will photograph well. Not to mention the confidence alone is worth it! I hope this helped sway you to hiring a Makeup Artist for your next shoot! Sarah is taking on new clients right now! Plus, look how cute she is with all her equipment! 

Just for fun, here are some more of Brecken's senior pictures!